I married only once— ironic then

[joel]

I married only once— ironic then
how many times I’ve widowed been. In Sun
day school, these consequences of the faith
were never mentioned— yet was I adjured
to love and journey, yoked and hand-in-hand
and joined in single flesh and bathed in grace
ablaze. I came and saw and followed you.
I came to love. So when you bid adieu
to me, I grieve. And when you leave, I pace
dank valley paths. And over, over and
yet over still again have I endured
to love you, join you and to hear— Thus saith
the LORD: I first, I last, beside me none,
your bridegroom ever mourned and born again.

[Jenni Mansfield Peal]

Your poem addresses our hearts made soft by faith and the vulnerability of true devotion. How beautiful and private - dank valley paths. I haven't ever considered the vulnerability of men widowed by the rdeparting Bridegroom.
Thank you for sharing this, JMP